Divorce Certificate in Pakistan: NADRA Process

A Divorce Certificate is a legal document issued to confirm the dissolution of a marriage under the law. In Pakistan, NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) plays a crucial role in the issuance of divorce certificates, ensuring that the document is legally recognized and accessible. This certificate is vital for individuals who have undergone a divorce, as it serves as proof of the dissolution of their marriage. Whether for legal, financial, or personal purposes, obtaining a divorce certificate from NADRA is an essential step in the post-divorce process.

1. Importance of Divorce Certificate in Pakistan

The divorce certificate serves multiple purposes:

• Legal Proof: It acts as the legal proof that the marriage has been legally dissolved.
• Official Records: It is used for updating records with government authorities and other institutions.
• Remarriage: For individuals seeking to remarry, a divorce certificate is often required to prove that the previous marriage has been legally dissolved.
• Financial and Legal Transactions: It may be needed for matters like property division, child custody, inheritance, and other legal proceedings following a divorce.

2. Process to Obtain Divorce Certificate from NADRA

The procedure for obtaining a divorce certificate in Pakistan through NADRA involves several key steps:

Step 1: Divorce Registration with Union Council

Before applying for a divorce certificate through NADRA, the divorce must first be registered with the Union Council. For a Muslim marriage, this is done by submitting the Nikah Nama along with the divorce details. For non-Muslim marriages, a similar process applies based on the relevant personal law.

Step 2: Submission of Required Documents

Once the divorce is officially registered with the Union Council, the next step is applying for the divorce certificate. The required documents typically include:

• Divorce Order/Decree: The court’s final divorce order or decree if the divorce was granted through court proceedings.
• CNIC: The Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) of the applicant.
• Marriage Certificate: The original marriage certificate (Nikah Nama) or proof of marriage.
• Divorce Agreement: If applicable, the divorce agreement or settlement deed.

Step 3: Application at NADRA

The applicant must visit the NADRA office or apply through NADRA's e-Services portal to submit their application for the divorce certificate. This can be done in person or online, depending on the applicant's convenience and the availability of services in their area.

Step 4: Verification of Documents

After the application is submitted, NADRA will verify the authenticity of the documents, including confirming the registration of the divorce with the Union Council. This step ensures that the divorce is legally recognized before issuing the certificate.

Step 5: Issuance of Divorce Certificate

Once the verification is complete, the divorce certificate will be issued by NADRA. The certificate can either be collected in person from the NADRA office or may be sent by post, depending on the chosen method of application.

3. Divorce Certificate Fees and Time Frame

The fees for obtaining a divorce certificate from NADRA can vary depending on the service provider and the region. However, the charges are generally affordable and are outlined by NADRA and the Union Council.

The processing time also varies, but typically it takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to receive the divorce certificate. It’s recommended to check with the NADRA office or online portal for the exact processing time in your area.

4. Uses of Divorce Certificate

A divorce certificate issued by NADRA serves as an official record and can be used in a variety of situations:

• Remarriage: To prove the legal dissolution of marriage when applying for remarriage.
• Legal and Financial Matters: For updating legal documents, claiming inheritance, property division, or applying for alimony.
• Official Record Updates: To update marital status with government agencies, banks, and other institutions.

5. Authentication for International Use

If you need the divorce certificate for use abroad, it may require further attestation or legalization. This can be done by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the relevant embassy or consulate. For international use, ensure that the divorce certificate meets the requirements of the country where it will be presented.

Conclusion

Obtaining a divorce certificate through NADRA in Pakistan is a straightforward process, but it requires the proper documentation and registration. This certificate holds legal significance and serves various purposes, including legal transactions and remarriage. By following the appropriate steps and ensuring that your documents are in order, you can easily acquire your divorce certificate and proceed with any necessary post-divorce arrangements.

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